Acupuncture can improve the look of fine lines and boost skin firmness but because it also triggers key structural processes it can help strengthen the skin’s ability to resist external ageing factors (such as photo-ageing) as well as internal factors that can cause skin problems – including digestive intolerances, inflammation and hormonal changes.

Skin is the barrier between our complex anatomy and harsh environmental aggressors. Any wound to the skin triggers a rapid healing response so inserting acupuncture needles makes tiny micro-wounds in the skin, helping to reignite this intricate skin repair process.

By using a needle, we can boost skin Growth Factors and Fibroblasts. Fibroblasts help to degrade collagen Type III and replace it with collagen Type I (which is the fundamental type of collagen needed for skin rejuvenation). Growth Factors play a critical role in managing inflammatory responses and aiding new skin cell growth.

Angiogenesis (regeneration of the skin’s blood supply) is an ongoing process. Acupuncture helps to trigger different skin cell types to produce angiogenic factors, thereby kickstarting new and healthier skin microcirculation. This helps boost radiance.

Cosmetic Acupuncture can help stimulate the regenerative potential of the skin because of the different types of stem cells that are located in the skin and its associated structures. These stem cells (particularly Epidermal Skin Cells that benefit all layers of the skin) maintain skin homeostasis and help regulate skin damage under physiological conditions.

John Tsagaris sees people at The Wellness Clinic, Harrods.